ICONZ

Some secondhand wear. Foxing.

ICONZ is an encyclopaedic collection of 64 illustrated graphic icons cataloguing New Zealand?s popular culture and identity. The book takes an affectionate look at what New Zealanders hold dear, and is intended for the local market, nostalgic expats abroad and visiting tourists alike.

An abundance of existing material brandishing ?kiwiana? in various guises ? not all, but much of it kitsch ? led Belinda Ellis, one of the country?s leading graphic designers, to create this iconic look at New Zealand identity. Her intention was to create a recognisable New Zealand brand that would truly stand out. The project?s point of difference is in its quality of design and production standards, as well as in its uniformity of look.

ICONZ pushes past ?kiwiana?, to depict iconic New Zealanders, Maoridom, cuisine, products and pastimes, as well as comparable aspects of our flora and fauna. The suite of icons is to be for commercial publication and application under the trademark, ICONZ. This book is intended to serve as the foundation of the project, showcasing the icons in an illustrated book with high production values. Concurrently with the book?s publication, and under the same trademark, the icons have been applied to a range of retail merchandise: art-quality prints and stationery; clothing and accessories; household items; even chocolates.